Daily Devotional for Friday, July 26

The Judged

“He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people,” Psalm 50:4.

It is a fact from God’s Word that God’s people will be judged. First Peter 4:17 states that judgment must begin at the house of God. Paul wrote to the church at Corinth, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:10). Those who have covenanted with the Lord will stand before the Lord in judgment.

More detail is given in 1 Corinthians 3:11-15 regarding the criteria by which we will be judged. Our works will be revealed by fire to show their character and authenticity. Some may be found lacking and simply burn up like wood, hay and stubble. Others may be like precious stones of the highest quality, standing up to the fiery test. As the Lord’s people, we greatly desire that our works be found as gold, silver and precious stones, and that we would hear the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).

The only works that will be approved by God are those that are done for Christ and His glory. Be careful to follow Christ wholeheartedly, and not seek to please men. Remember the words of Paul, “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10). Seeking to appease people or receive glory from others will burn up at the Judgment Seat of Christ. Striving to honor and glorify Christ may not always gain popularity with people; however, you will have the precious stones and rewards that will never fade away.

REFLECTION
“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be” (Revelation 22:12).

Darla Goodrum